RUGBY: Table-topping Blues prepare for Bristol
Bedford Blues head into their first major test of the season in an enviable position.
Mike Rayer's side entertain Bristol at Goldington Road this weekend from their perch at the top of The Championship standings and will put their unbeaten record on the line against the team who were relegated from the Guinness Premiership last term.
The same is true of Paul Hull's visitors who also boast a 100 per cent record and, according to Rayer, will travel as favourites.
He said: "It's no secret that the coaches and players look for fixtures like this when they come out. We've had a good start, but there's no pressure on us. Bristol will be expected to win and this will be a challenge that we have to meet."
As to what his players can expect, Rayer warned that they will have to be precise in their exceution.
He continued: "From what we've seen they've got a powerful pack and a strong driving game. Their nine and 10 (Jason Spice and Adrian Jarvis) have plenty of experience and dictate terms with a tactical game and their back three are dangerous.
"It means that we need to concentrate on what we're doing and not do things that we don't want to."
But what Rayer will be looking for is an improvement in consistency.
The Blues have produced some good stuff in their three victories, albeit in spurts rather than long periods, and that is something the director of rugby wants to change.
He added: "We need to play for 80 minutes and not just 15 or 20.
"We scored in bursts against Coventry and Plymouth and need to score on a more regular basis across games.
"There are a few areas that could do with some small improvement, but generally we are in pretty good shape."
Gregor Gillanders is a doubt for Saturday with an ankle problem, but other than that he will be selecting from a position of strength.
Rayer is also hopeful of announcing the signing the loan signing of a prop in the next few days.
>> Discounts are available for tickets bought in advance for the Bristol game.
Tickets are priced at 20 and 16 if bought on the day, but there is a 4 discount if they are bought during the week.
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Weather for Biggleswade
Sunday 12 February 2012
Today
Light rain
Temperature: 2 C to 4 C
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